Malawi Police destroys over 3,127 illegal guns

Malawi Police Service on Thursday destroyed over 3,127 illegal guns confiscated from criminals.

Speaking during the function at Police headquarters in the capital Lilongwe, the Inspector General of Police Loti Dzonzi said the destruction of these firearms next reflects the country’s commitment towards combating the spread of illegal arms.

Dzonzi said the destruction of firearms exercise is in line with United Nations programme of action to prevent, combat and eradicate the illicit trade in small and light arms.

Guns on fire

Police destroy illegal firearms as part of a programme to reduce gun trafficking and violent crime

Regionally Dzonzi said Police is bound by Southern African Development Community protocol on the control of fire arms.

Many of the guns had been seized in police operations. However, old firearms from police, were also destroyed to ensure they did not end up in the hands of criminals.

Dzonzi expressed gratitude to the general public for helping the law enforcers through the Police Community programmes.

“Out of 3,127 firearms thirty two antique firearms were voluntarily handed over while others were recovered through tips by the General public, “said Dzonzi.

Similar exercise took place in 2009 where over 5,000 illicit firearms were destroyed.